UFC 149: Preview and Predictions for Biggest Matchups on Card

Even though the UFC 149 fight card isn't on the same level as UFC 148, there are still some really good matchups scheduled for Saturday night. It's a chance for some lesser-known competitors to get their chance to shine.

Let's take a look at the three most important fights MMA fans should be looking forward to. After a quick overview of each bout, I will make a prediction for how each of them will turn out. Regardless of the results, it should be another interesting night of UFC action.

Urijah Faber vs. Renan Barao

Faber got back on the winning track in his last fight by forcing Brian Bowles into submission in the second round. The victory was supposed to earn him another chance at Dominick Cruz, who beat him last July, but Cruz is injured.

That means Faber will go up against Barao for the interim Bantamweight Championship. Barao lost his first career MMA fight all the way back in 2005, and nobody has beaten him since. That amounts to 28 victories and one no contest.

The Brazilian was very impressive in his two most recent victories over Brad Pickett and Scott Jorgensen to earn this golden opportunity. I don't think he'll let it slip away.

Prediction: Renan Barao

Hector Lombard vs. Tim Boetsch

From one extended winning streak to another. Lombard last lost a fight in 2006 to Gegard Mousasi. He's bounced around to several promotions since that point, but he will make his UFC debut on Saturday on quite a roll.

Boetsch is no slouch, either. After three straight victories he was scheduled to face Michael Bisping before the popular fighter had to pull out. So he will want to keep that hot streak alive in order to earn another chance at a high-profile fight next time out.

This should be a really good battle because both guys should have no shortage of motivation given their current situations. It's tough to know how Lombard's transition will go, but I like his chances.

Prediction: Hector Lombard

Cheick Kongo vs. Shawn Jordan

Kongo looked to be having a late-career resurgence after wins over Pat Barry and Matt Mitrione last year. He lost his first bout of 2012 to Mark Hunt, however, which means the 37-year-old fighter's matchup against Jordan is crucial.

Jordan had a terrific UFC debut back in March, knocking out Oli Thompson in the second round. He showed a lot of power in the process. Nine of his 13 career wins have come by knockout, so his strategy isn't a secret.

Just like Lombard against Boetsch, this fight is basically a toss-up. I think Kongo's experience will give him a minor advantage since he knows what to expect from Jordan.

Prediction: Cheick Kongo